Shawn & Mike Take A Hike

Join Shawn and Mike on this episode of Shawn & Mike Take A Hike, where we break down the basics of how to read hiking maps—without making your head spin. If you’re new to hiking and backpacking, understanding a trail map can feel a little intimidating. But don’t worry—we’re here to make it simple, fun, and totally judgment-free. In this beginner-friendly episode, we’ll guide you through the fundamentals of reading topographic maps, including how to interpret contour lines, elevation changes, trail markers, and terrain features like ridgelines, valleys, and water sources. We’ll also explain the differences between paper maps and digital map apps, how to find the scale and compass rose, and why knowing your north from your south actually matters out there. Whether you’re planning your first day hike or gearing up for a multi-day backpacking trip, we’ll give you practical tips for using maps to plan routes, identify potential camp spots, avoid hazards, and stay oriented on the trail. We even talk about where to find quality maps and what to look for when choosing one. So grab a cup of coffee (and maybe a compass), and let’s take the mystery out of map reading. Because navigating the outdoors shouldn't require a PhD—just a little curiosity and a couple of friends to walk you through it.

It’s a big day on Shawn & Mike Take A Hike—we’re celebrating our 50th episode! Join us as we take a laid-back walk down memory lane, revisiting some of our favorite moments, biggest laughs, and most surprising lessons since starting this podcast about backpacking and hiking for beginners. From the gear we loved (and some we didn’t), to the trail stories that still make us laugh, we’re getting personal and reflective about what it’s been like to create a podcast filled with amateur hiking advice for amateur hikers. In this special milestone episode, we also share behind-the-scenes stories, listener feedback that stuck with us, and how the show has shaped our own hiking journeys. Whether you’ve been with us since episode one or are just discovering the podcast, this is a great opportunity to learn more about what we’ve learned, what we’re still figuring out, and where Shawn & Mike Take A Hike is headed next. So lace up those boots and celebrate 50 episodes of missteps, milestones, and memorable moments on the trail—with your favorite pair of amateur hikers.

In this episode of Shawn & Mike Take A Hike, we’re zeroing in on one of the most dreaded pests on the trail—ticks. Whether you’re out for a quick day hike or deep into a backcountry backpacking trip, knowing how to prevent tick bites and what to do if you find one is essential. We talk about the dangers ticks pose (like Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses), how to protect yourself before and during your hike, and what steps to take if you discover one latched on. We’ll also cover where ticks are most active, what seasons pose the greatest risk, and which parts of your body to check closely after a hike. From insect repellent tips to proper tick removal techniques, we’ve got you covered with practical advice from two regular guys who’ve pulled a few of these little buggers off their legs more than once. Whether you’re new to hiking or a seasoned trekker, this is a must-listen episode to help you stay safe and keep your adventures bite-free.

Storms don’t just reshape landscapes—they reshape the hiking experience. In this episode of Shawn & Mike Take A Hike, we’re diving into a topic that many hikers don’t think about until it’s too late: how natural disasters like ice storms, wildfires, floods, and high winds can leave trails dangerous or completely inaccessible. After a recent ice storm in northern Michigan closed several trails for the entire summer, we realized just how important this conversation is. We’ll talk about how to recognize hazards like “widowmakers” (dangling or broken branches ready to fall), unstable terrain, washed-out trail segments, damaged bridges, and the hidden risks that come with hiking in the aftermath of a natural event. We’ll also discuss how long-term storm damage can affect trail conditions, ecosystems, and wildlife activity—along with how to find accurate trail status updates from local land agencies and online platforms. Most importantly, we’ll talk about why sometimes the best thing a hiker can do is stay home and wait—no matter how badly you want to get back out there. Respecting trail closures and giving trail crews time to clear and repair damage helps ensure safety for everyone and protects the long-term health of the wilderness areas we all love. Whether you’re a beginner planning your first hike or an experienced backpacker eager to hit the trail after a big storm, this episode is packed with useful advice to help you hike smart, stay safe, and tread lightly.

In this special episode of Shawn & Mike Take a Hike, we welcome a listener to the show to share their unique take on backcountry camping—and why they prefer a hammock over a traditional tent. While our podcast usually highlights our own experiences as amateur hikers figuring it out as we go, this time we’re sitting down with someone from our growing community to hear about their journey into backpacking. We’ll chat about how they got started, what they’ve learned along the way, and why hammock camping has become their go-to sleep system on the trail. From gear choices and setup tips to what it’s like sleeping under the stars between two trees, this episode offers a real-world perspective on an alternative approach to backcountry comfort. Whether you’ve considered ditching your tent or you’re just curious about the pros and cons of hammocking, this is a great listen for beginner hikers looking to explore new options. Tune in as we continue building a space for down-to-earth hiking advice, honest conversations, and the kind of stories that remind us all we’re still learning. Don’t miss this cozy conversation from the trail!